Don MacArthur

Don MacArthur, known as “The Practical Engineer,” is a Guest Contributor to In Compliance Magazine with over 30 years of hands-on experience in product development and global regulatory strategy. He has led engineering teams and certification efforts across defense systems, critical infrastructure, and industrial technologies. Don specializes in making complex compliance challenges accessible—translating standards, test methodologies, and conformance requirements into actionable engineering practices that drive certification success and product credibility.

From This Author

Product Insights

Design Considerations for EMC Test Chambers

Planning an EMC test chamber? Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test chambers are specialized facilities for evaluating electronic devices against electromagnetic interference. This guide explores essential design considerations—including RF absorber selection, shielding materials, and chamber configuration—to help engineers create accurate, compliant testing environments that meet industry standards.

Practical Engineering

EMC Compliance in Wireless Devices

Wireless devices face a perfect storm of EMC challenges—high frequencies, cramped circuits, multiple antennas battling for space, and noisy urban environments. Discover how industry giants like Apple, Fitbit, and Tesla engineer their way around electromagnetic chaos through ingenious shielding, filtering, and design tricks that keep your gadgets running flawlessly.

Product Insights

Case Studies and Real-World Applications of EMI Filters

By understanding the real-world applications and significance of EMI filters, engineers can design and implement effective solutions to manage electromagnetic interference across various industries, ensuring the smooth operation and compliance of electronic systems.

Practical Engineering

Regulatory Standards for EMC Compliance

Wondering how electronics pass EMC compliance? This guide breaks down essential standards from CISPR, IEC, FCC, and more—plus real-world examples from smartphone makers, automakers, and medical device manufacturers. Learn the testing requirements, documentation needs, and practical techniques companies use to ensure their products won't cause or suffer from electromagnetic interference.

Product Insights

Best Practices for Using Spectrum Analyzers in EMC Testing

Spectrum analyzers are essential for EMC testing—but only when used correctly. From setup and calibration to antenna selection and data interpretation, this guide covers best practices to ensure accurate measurements and smooth compliance with regulatory standards.

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Future Trends and Innovations in RF Absorbing Materials

Discover how cutting-edge RF absorbing materials are revolutionizing electronics—from innovative MXenes and acoustic metamaterials to eco-friendly bio-based alternatives. These breakthroughs are transforming device performance while tackling electromagnetic interference and environmental challenges. The future of sustainable, high-performance electronics starts here.

Practical Engineering

EMI Filters: Design and Implementation

EMI filters are essential electronic components that eliminate unwanted electromagnetic interference, ensuring devices operate reliably without disrupting nearby equipment. From low-pass to common-mode chokes, these filters reduce emissions, enhance immunity, and ensure regulatory compliance. Proper design requires identifying noise sources, selecting quality components, and strategic placement for optimal electromagnetic compatibility.

Product Insights

Introduction to Stitching Vias

Discover how strategically placed stitching vias serve as the unsung heroes of PCB design, maintaining ground plane integrity while minimizing electromagnetic interference. Learn essential techniques for achieving regulatory compliance and optimal signal performance in today's demanding electronic applications.

Practical Engineering

EMC Test Chambers: Design and Applications

Don MacArthur explores essential EMC test chambers—from anechoic to reverberation types—used across industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics. Learn key design considerations including material selection, shielding effectiveness, and applications ensuring electromagnetic compatibility compliance.

Product Insights

Components: Design Considerations for Compliance

Electronics compliance encompasses EMC, safety, and environmental standards essential for device success. This article covers critical design considerations including component selection, PCB layout and placement, and thermal management strategies for achieving regulatory compliance.

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Don MacArthur

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What's New

FDA Updates Lists of AI and Digital Health Medical Devices

Design Considerations for EMC Test Chambers

EMC Test Lab Market Expected to Nearly Double in Next Ten Years

EU Commission Taking Steps to Simplify Access to the EU’s “Single Market”

EMC Compliance in Wireless Devices